Shenandoah Conservatory alumnus Thomas Wilkins ’78 (Bachelor of Music in Music Education) recently conducted the Los Angeles Philharmonic in “Music from the Films of Wes Anderson,” a three-night celebration of the acclaimed filmmaker’s 30-year career at the Hollywood Bowl.

The immersive concert event featured orchestral performances of music from Anderson’s films, including selections from “The Royal Tenenbaums,” “Fantastic Mr. Fox” and “The Grand Budapest Hotel,” alongside appearances by special guest artists and collaborators associated with Anderson’s work. Wilkins led the Los Angeles Philharmonic in performances celebrating the distinctive scores and songs that have become a hallmark of the director’s films.

Wilkins was also recently featured in the AFRO article, “Two conductors, two paths through a historically exclusive field.” The article examines the careers of two distinguished conductors whose leadership and artistry have helped broaden representation in the orchestral world while inspiring future generations of musicians. Wilkins, an internationally acclaimed conductor and educator, reflects on his career and the evolving landscape of classical music in the article.